Analytical Methods in Earth Science
Syllabus, Master's level, 1GV015
- Code
- 1GV015
- Education cycle
- Second cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Earth Science A1F
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 30 August 2018
- Responsible department
- Department of Earth Sciences
Entry requirements
120 credits with (1) 90 credits in earth science or biology, or (2) 90 credits in physics and 30 credits in earth science (geophysics). Dynamics of Earth Systems - Global Change, 10 credits, or Exploration and Environmental Geophysics, 15 credits.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the course, the student should be able to:
- use analytical spectroscopic methods, and chemical analyses, using microprobe, as tools for the understanding of endogenic and exogenic processes, from a regional as well as from a global perspective
- explain basic principles of Raman and infrared spectroscopy and isotope geochemistry as advanced geochemical methods, including measurement procedures, and compilation and processing of data
- interpret results from various geological archives, such as sediments or rocks
- describe how stable and radioactive isotopes are used in earth sciences to date and trace processes associated with for example fossils and rocks
- apply results for critical analysis, and connection between currently active anthropogenic and natural processes
Content
Theoretical background to Raman and infrared spectroscopy, chemical analysis using microprobe and for isotope geochemistry. Interpretive methods for spectroscopic, chemical and isotope data from the point of view of geoscientific and societal problems. Application aspects and evaluation of results relevant for geological processes through different archives, with focus on individual project work.
Instruction
Lectures, laboratory work, and project work. Participation in laboratory, and project work is compulsory.
Training in communication skills with feedback is included in this course.
Assessment
Written examination 5 credits, presentation of project work orally and in writing 5 credits.
If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.